BirdWatch Ireland carrying out survey of barn owls in Kerry

BirdWatch Ireland is carrying out a survey of barn owls in Kerry.

In recent decades, the bird’s population has suffered extensive decline and is now a red-listed Bird of Conservation Concern in Ireland.

The changing agricultural landscape has resulted in the loss of suitable habitats, including a reduction of prey-rich foraging habitat and nesting sites.

Kerry has a relatively high number of known nesting sites and recent conservation efforts to help barn owls have proved successful.

The public can help the survey and conservation efforts by reporting any information to BirdWatch Ireland or taking part in the Birdwatch Ireland Barn Owl Survey

Barn Owl chick with fitted ring. Photograph by John Lusby. Image provided by BirdWatch Ireland.